ZEV (Z Electric Vehicle) has begun deliveries on its new ZEV5000 – a high performance electric powered scooter for the commuter rider designed around new advances in lead-based battery technology.
By using new advances in lead battery technology, ZEV has seen battery capacity jump over 11.2% in the last year. The company was able to create an electric motor scooter with a top speed of 62 mph and a range of 50 miles in open roads, and 25 miles in heavy traffic at a $4,545 MSRP (USD). In comparison to equal priced lithium battery bikes produced by other manufacturers, ZEV gets 40% more range for the same price and about 19% more top speed.
ZEV is mostly known for its 100 mile range / 75 – 80 mph top speed lithium battery powered bikes. And while the enthusiasts have focused on new and exotic battery technology, the vast majority of the population, according to the company, could best be served by a new approach, rather than a new technology. The vast majority of the public needs a vehicle to commute to work less than 20 miles. The achieved goal of the new 5000 LA for ZEV engineers was to get the speed up to 62 mph while exceeding a range of 50 miles in open roads, and 25 miles in heavy traffic while reducing the weight and cost of the vehicle.
ZEV was able to gain 11.2% in kwh capacity with the lead battery over the last year and a similar decrease in weight, while the cost went down slightly per battery. The historical lead battery problem of plate sulphating based on the use of sulphuric acid does not exist with these new batteries as the normal acid is replaced with a low sodium silicate compound liquid electrolyte. Additionally, the non-acid lead battery recharges quicker, rivaling the lithium powered bikes.
The new 5000 model shares the latest ZEV hub motor design with other vehicles in the company line up. With the ability to take continuous power up to 8,000 watts and launch power to 16,000 watts, the motor contributes heavily toward the range and efficiency of the new 5000 as does the 3 speed “electronic transmission” controller.
For more information on the ZEV 5000, visit www.zelectricvehicle.com.
